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Sicily's most enduring visitor destination, Agrigento is most famous for its classical Greek temples which sit on a sloping ridge within the so-called Valley of the Temples, just below the town. Dating back to the 5th century BC, the ruins were part of the ancient city of Akragas, once one of the Greek Empire's most lavish outposts.
The modern town of Agrigento has a storied medieval core, Baroque churches, a Norman cathedral and many lively restaurants and bars lining the narrow, winding streets. It makes for an atmospheric place to stroll after a day of sightseeing.
Italy specialist CarolineWhile Agrigento’s focal point is the Valley of the Temples (my tip is to tour them by night, when it’s cooler), if you do nothing else, make sure to try some of its almond delicacies, beloved throughout Italy.
Things to see and do in Agrigento
Valley of the Temples
Founded in 581 BC by settlers from Gela and Rhodes, Akragas was a vast city renowned for its wealth. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site which encompasses a grid of ancient streets as well as five massive Doric temples.
The oldest surviving of these is the Temple of Hercules which dates from the end of the 6th century BC and sits among a cluster of ruins in the east of the site. There's also a garden full of olive and citrus trees and a comprehensive archaeological museum that houses a large collection of ceramics and sculptures.
Temples of Concordia and Juno
The best preserved monument in the Valley of the Temples is the Temple of Concordia, a colossal structure that offers a good sense of how prosperous and significant Akragas once was. The building is one of the largest and most intact Doric temples in the world. Its proportions and elegantly simple design are largely untouched despite being converted into a Christian basilica in the 6th century.
Nearby is the very similar Temple of Juno, which was damaged by an earthquake in the Middle Ages and is less well preserved. On the eastern side of the temple, however, are the clear remains of a sacrificial altar.
Favara Cultural Farm
Just east of Agrigento, Favara is a maze of small lanes and twisting streets adorned with contemporary urban art and sculpture. Formerly a struggling town with a dwindling population, it has become one of Sicily's trendiest destinations thanks to an ambitious regeneration project.
Restored buildings now house gallery spaces, bookshops, vintage clothes stores, cafés, boutiques and bars. Artists and craftspeople flock here and there are permanent and temporary exhibitions of paintings and photography as well as regular art and cultural events. It's a vibrant place to wander around, with a small castle to explore and a thriving art market.
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Suggested itineraries featuring Agrigento
Our itineraries will give you suggestions for what is possible when you travel in Agrigento, and they showcase routes we know work particularly well. Treat them as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.
Places near Agrigento
- Villa Romana del Casale 42 miles away
- Sicily 51 miles away
- Palermo 58 miles away
- Ragusa, Modica & Noto 69 miles away
- Marsala 72 miles away
- Erice and Trapani 74 miles away
- Mount Etna 84 miles away
- Syracuse 96 miles away
- Taormina 101 miles away
- Capri 227 miles away
- Sorrento 234 miles away
- The Amalfi Coast 237 miles away
- Ischia 238 miles away
- Pompeii 243 miles away
- Herculaneum 246 miles away
- Naples 247 miles away
- Southern Sardinia 276 miles away
- Matera 284 miles away
Photos of Agrigento
Our expert guides to exploring Agrigento
Written by our specialists from their own experiences of visiting Agrigento, these guides will help you make the most of your time there. We share both our practical recommendations and the best ways to appreciate Agrigento at its best.
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Where to visit in Sicily Where to visit in Sicily
Where to visit in Sicily
Beyond its azure waters and white pebbled beaches, Sicily offers a complex cultural experience, one that is seen in its Baroque churches, open-air markets, Greek ruins and complex cuisine. Discover why it’s the crossroads of the Mediterranean with Audley specialist Kimberly.
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Accommodation choices for Agrigento
We've selected a range of accommodation options for when you visit Agrigento. Our choices usually come recommended for their character, facilities and service or location. Our specialists always aim to suggest properties that match your preferences.
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Hotel Villa Athena
Agrigento -
Responsible ChoiceWe've hand-selected a range of tours and stays across the world that go above and beyond to be a force for good by supporting local businesses, educating staff, challenging local norms, or promoting conservation and biodiversity efforts. Your Responsible Choice helps increase the positive impact of your trip.
Fontes Episcopi
Agrigento -
Hotel Foresteria Baglio della Luna
Agrigento
Ideas for experiencing Agrigento
Our specialists seek out authentic ways to get to know the places that could feature in your trip. These activities reflect some of the experiences they've most enjoyed while visiting Agrigento, and which use the best local guides.
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Agrigento: Valley of the Temples tour Agrigento: Valley of the Temples tour
Agrigento: Valley of the Temples tour
The city of Akragas was one of the most lavish ancient Greek outposts and much of it remains intact in the Valley of the Temples. It is best toured with a knowledgeable guide who can reveal its many treasures and mysteries.
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